A UK university study has confirmed that photobiomodulation with 670 nm red light reduces fluctuations in blood glucose levels (glycaemia). Photobiomodulation light therapy thus serves as an effective preventive measure against the development of diabetes.

About study

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Title:	Light stimulation of mitochondria reduces blood glucose levels
Author:	Michael B. Powner, Glen Jeffery Department of Optometry and Visual Science, Centre for Applied Vision Research, School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK Department of Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
Date:	21. January 2024
Source:	https://doi.org/10.1002/jbio.202300521
PDF:	Light stimulation of mitochondria reduces blood glucose levels.PDF

Brief summary

A new study from a London university examined the effect of photobiomodulation (PBM) using red light at a wavelength of 670 nm on blood glucose levels in humans, as well as its ability to stimulate and modulate biological processes in cells and tissues. The researchers found that 15-minute exposure to 670 nm light (known as deep red light) 45 minutes before a standardized oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) led to a significant 27.7% reduction in the total rise in glucose concentration. The results suggest that photobiomodulation with 670 nm light could be used to reduce the sharp increase in blood glucose after meals, potentially aiding in the prevention and treatment of diabetes.

Photobiomodulation with 670 nm red light significantly reduced the degree of blood glucose elevation

Scientists have found that light with a wavelength of 670 nm increases ATP production in mitochondria, which increases their need for glucose. This leads to lower blood glucose levels as the cells draw more glucose from the bloodstream. This effect is due to the fact that light stimulates the mitochondrial membrane potential and accelerates metabolism. Thus, the results suggest that exposure to natural sunlight or full-spectrum light sources containing wavelengths above 650 nm may contribute to better control of postprandial glycemic spikes, which appears to be crucial in the clinical intervention of diabetes.